Father God,

We see images and hear stories from the unfolding violence in Israel and Palestine. Our heads are full and our hearts are heavy.

We watch the unfolding brutality and violence, sectarianism and hatred.

Lord, have mercy.

We choose not to turn away but to turn to You as we pray the words of Simon Peter, “Lord, to whom shall we go? You have the words of eternal life.”

Jesus, You love these places and these people. Speak Your words of eternal life over them today.

Make Your presence known.

Creator of this earth, a world with no guns or bombs or borders, You walked these lands with compassion and grace. Prince of peace, would You walk there again today.

We echo the words of psalmists and prophets: hear the cries of orphans and widows; swiftly bring justice and healing.

Heal these lands.

You died and rose from the dusty earth outside Jerusalem. Today, may Your shed blood bring healing. May Your resurrection power bring life.

We dare to hope to see new images and hear new stories of transformation. Hatred to hospitality, swords to ploughshares and mourning to dancing.

Hear our prayers.

May Your kingdom come, in Israel and Palestine as it is in Heaven.

Amen.